Belize Travelcast
The Belize Travelcast is the official podcast of Belize, a new podcast series created by Let’s Go Belizing Ltd. (Belizing.com), a brand that is passionate about telling authentic stories, promoting sustainable tourism, and traveling in Belize. Each episode is an engaging conversation that delivers useful and authentic travel tips and experience through personal stories from our guests. We also deliver relevant updates on the Belize tourism industry and important issues affecting the environment, culture, and economy of Belize. Find @goBelizing on social media.
info_outline
Chan Chich Lodge: Conservation of Belize's Natural Beauty
01/26/2023
Chan Chich Lodge: Conservation of Belize's Natural Beauty
In this episode, Cindy from joins us to speak about conservation efforts to protect Belize and Central America’s wildlife and rainforests. Chan Chich Lodge in the north of Belize is a pioneer for conservation. Its name comes from the Yucatec words for “little bird” and is built on what was an undiscovered Maya city. Originally a residence for archaeologists and researchers, the lodge became popular with the public as word got out about the hidden gem that is this property and people came to visit for themselves. Because of the location’s isolation, it is a place where guests can go to be free from distraction and reconnect with themselves and nature. It is also due to this isolation that the conservation efforts began. So far from the nearest town, the lodge started growing their own crops and keeping their own animals such as chickens all for on-site consumption. This sustainability expanded and now the lodge takes every step to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact, something that in recent years has become a trend called “ecotourism.” Cindy enlightens us on all this and delves deeper into the stories of the people who come to enjoy what the lodge has to offer, a unique experience it fights to preserve as organizations contributing to the Belize Maya Forest project. This fund seeks to protect the natural corridor connecting Belize to Mexico and Central America which is inhabited by many treasured and endangered species like jaguars and tapirs. With over 300 birds in the area and authentic wildlife kept untouched by man, the many trails on the property are a sightseeing paradise that can be explored via the many guided tours offered or simply at your own leisure. The lucky guest might even spot an elusive jaguar passing through. Let’s go to Chan Chich, where guests can know they are helping to make a difference, traveling with a purpose. This episode was sponsored by Book their signature combo tour that takes you from the heights of the Xunantunich Maya temple to Cave Tubing into one of the Maya Underworld gateways.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/25028232
info_outline
Sak Tunich: Preserving Maya Culture & Tradition
01/26/2023
Sak Tunich: Preserving Maya Culture & Tradition
In this episode, we are joined by Ruben Magana, co-owner of with his father Jose Magana. Ruben speaks about Maya culture in Belize and how it is passed on and kept alive even today. Part of this cultural preservation is Sak Tunich itself. The name comes from the Mayan words for “white rock.” This is because under the topsoil of the property is a layer of pure limestone. The whole place resembles an authentic Maya site, including a plaza, ballcourt, and ceremonial room all carved and decorated traditionally. It is a place where visitors can see and learn more about the culture and traditions of Belize’s Maya people. The country is unique in part because it is the only nation where people can get married on any archaeological site. This means that traditions such as Maya wedding ceremonies are particularly strong. One practice in these ceremonies introduces the four cardinal points, north, south, east, and west, with their different associated colors and energies. One thing Ruben makes clear is that the Maya are not gone. In Belize alone, there are three different branches of the Maya people, of which he is Yucatec. However, ancient traditions are being lost to time and change, such as the language and English and Spanish taking over outside the home, as well as things such as traditional farming practices and rituals. Take a dive with Ruben into the rich Maya culture in Belize, past, present, and future, and see just how it is showcased throughout the country in both architectures like that of Sak Tunich down to the courting traditions of the people. This episode is sponsored by .
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/25014219
info_outline
Adventures in Southern Belize with Untame Belize Tours
12/02/2022
Adventures in Southern Belize with Untame Belize Tours
This episode features Rodwell Ferguson Jr., owner of , and a board member of the Belize Tourism Board. In this episode, he dives into all his favorite activities and places to visit in Southern Belize. From rock sliding down waterfalls to hiking the world's only jaguar reserve in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Reserve, Rodwell lets us in on all the top activities he has done and what he recommends every traveler should try when visiting Belize. Through his company, Untame Belize, he can take intrepid travelers on these memorable experiences. Rodwell refers to the Southern part of Belize as the "bread and butter" of Belize, as it not only offers inland and island adventures from popular destinations like Hopkins and Placencia but it is also home to some of Belize's prime industries contributing to Belize's economy, including citrus and banana. It is also home to Belize's second largest port, Big Creek Port. There's much to explore and discover in Southern Belize with Untame Belize. Their tours can range from zip lining through lush forest canopies to swimming with the sea turtles in the Caribbean Sea. Rodwell also mentions some of his favorite destinations in the south of Belize, including Davis Falls, the second largest waterfall in Belize, Red Bank, the largest gathering of scarlet macaws in Central America, and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the worlds only jaguar reserve. If you are looking for adventures in Belize, then Southern Belize is the place to go! Let's go Belizing!
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/25204026
info_outline
Relaxation and Adventure on the Belize Barrier Reef: Blue Marlin Beach Resort
11/12/2022
Relaxation and Adventure on the Belize Barrier Reef: Blue Marlin Beach Resort
This episode is short and sweet with two guests, Mariel and Carlene, from Blue Marlin Beach Resort on South Water Caye. The name is a tribute to the island which was once used as a fishing camp and in honor of the rare and difficult catch of a Blue Marlin in the area. True to this, one of the top activities around South Water Caye is fishing, for both beginners and experts. In fact, fly fishing can be done right from the docks. Both snorkeling and diving are also available just off the island for those looking for something more adventurous, as the Caye is located on the Barrier Reef. Along with snorkel and scuba packages, Blue Marlin also offers relaxation packages for those who want to disconnect, go island hopping, hang out, and maybe get a massage. On the other hand, South Water Caye can also be used as a base for caving, ziplining, and any other trips on the mainland. When in Belize, Blue Marlin Beach Resort on South Water Caye is nothing if not an ideal destination. Let’s go experience all it has to offer.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/24988896
info_outline
Destination Weddings in Belize with Blu Zen
11/12/2022
Destination Weddings in Belize with Blu Zen
In the episode, Norvani Santoya, Reservations manager at the Blue Zen Resort on Caye Caulker, talks about just why Caye Caulker and Belize as a whole are the perfect wedding destination. As Norvani states, Zen is about finding balance in relaxation and peacefulness. Located in an accessible yet private and secluded location, Blue Zen accomplishes just this. Along with handling arrivals/departures and general concierge service, Norvani and his team are also responsible for creating completely personalized packages for guests and, most of all, weddings. As the only English-speaking country in Central America and packed with unique attractions such as lobster fest, the second largest barrier reef, and the great blue hole, Belize is the perfect choice for those looking for a destination wedding. Whether you choose to get married on the beach, on a sandbar, in the jungle, on a Maya temple, or on a waterfall, Belize has you covered. What’s more, the ensuing honeymoon can start immediately after without much need for travel. Blue Zen can take care of all of this. Norvani and his team work with their guests every step of the way and will go to great lengths to ensure you have the wedding and honeymoon experience you envision. Enjoy Caye Caulker’s laid-back fishing village atmosphere with the best food and the best sunsets in Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/24988575
info_outline
Maya Healing and Culture in Belize
11/11/2022
Maya Healing and Culture in Belize
In this episode, we speak with the Yucatec Maya healer and owner of Nuuk Cheil Cottages, Aurora Saki. Aurora speaks about her Maya culture and the tradition of healing that has been passed down through her family. Her mother learned from her grandfather and her uncle became world-renowned, the same uncle who she studied under for 8 years, learning the secrets of countless plants that when combined and used correctly can create nature's remedies for almost anything. She has now been a full-fledged healer for over 25 years, but this is not all she has accomplished. As a girl Aurora and her sisters almost single-handedly built the slate carving industry, making the form of art popular and widespread throughout Belize with their work. Growing up she learned not to be ashamed of her culture but to embrace it and won an award for writing her Mayan cookbook. She opened a restaurant. Then she opened Nuuk Cheil Cottages, deriving its name from the Mayan word for “forest” because of the surrounding area. In the heart of nature, Nuuk Cheil is a beautiful property just about 6 miles from the jaguar reserve where guests and groups can rent a place to stay while in Belize. Listen as Aurora details all of this and more, even including her own Romeo and Juliet story of how she ran away to marry her husband of 30 years, Ernesto Saki, a village chairman of the Mopan Maya. In addition, take a tour of her goodie bag of Maya concoctions that Aurora has created from nature: everything from eye drops to bug spray to hair loss treatments to even a dream serum, all of which she sells as part of being a Healer. So dive into the fascinating culture of the Maya and the well of ancient knowledge that Aurora has to offer.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/24980115
info_outline
Things to do from Belize City : Cave Tubing and Maya Sites with Private Belize Adventures
11/11/2022
Things to do from Belize City : Cave Tubing and Maya Sites with Private Belize Adventures
In this episode, we sit down with Dorian Rivero, owner of Private Belize Adventure and tour guide of over 20 years, to discuss what activities are available to visitors based in Belize City such as those looking for a way to enjoy their Belize layover during a cruise. Belize City, being one of the first settlements, has a rich history and many historical relics, whether it be the artifacts in museums or the colonial style building, there is always a sight to see. From here, people are in the perfect location to embark on quick trips to more exotic destinations such as an ancient Mayan city or cave tubing through a gorgeous underground river. With Dorian and Private Belize Adventure, take a virtual walkthrough of a combo tour where guests book private trips to do just that, spending the day exploring the ruins of Altun Ha in addition to floating down the blue waters and breathtaking caverns of Nohoch Che’en. Anyone can on Belizing.com Altun Ha is unique, as the ancient city once served as a center of manufacturing and trade yet is not built on a body of water. Meanwhile, Nohoch Che’en provides an unforgettable cave-tubing experience where guests also get the opportunity to explore some dry branches of the cave to uncover artifacts frozen in time like abandoned Mayan pottery, left untouched for ages. In between or along the way shop at nearby establishments, and when it comes time, enjoy the delicious Belizean lunch provided. No need to worry about any park fees or equipment needed for your adventure; everything is included: tubes, life vests, helmets, and lights. There are many memories to be made from Belize City. Let’s go make them.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/24975921
info_outline
Traveling to Belize during the Covid-19 Pandemic
07/12/2021
Traveling to Belize during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Ali Wunderman joins us in the studio for a conversation about the new Belize covid-19 travel restrictions and her experience traveling back to Belize for the first time during the pandemic. We discuss the new travel protocols and her experience arriving in Belize and visiting different areas of the country. Ali walks us through her experience and explains why traveling to Belize is as easy as 1-2-3.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/19775798
info_outline
Belize Crystal Cave Virtual Audio Tour
07/01/2021
Belize Crystal Cave Virtual Audio Tour
In this episode, we take you on a virtual tour of the world-renowned Mountain Cow Crystal Cave in western Belize. The Crystal Cave is one of the most popular spelunking destinations in Belize. Expert cave guide Mr Francisco Itza from Belize Caving Expeditions will walk you through the entire experience by discussing what you'll see, hear, and do on this unique tour. You'll also get some travel tips and insights to prepare for the tour on your next Belize vacation.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/19679441
info_outline
Safeguarding Belize's Cultural and Natural Heritage
06/07/2021
Safeguarding Belize's Cultural and Natural Heritage
Ella Békési from Heritage Network Belize talks about Belize's cultural and natural heritage, including the tangible and intangible heritage. She also discusses why it is important for Belizeans, and visitors alike, to safeguard and embrace the cultural and natural heritage of Belize for generations to come. Their initiative started in the midst of the 2020 pandemic with the aim to facilitate sustainable development of tourism in Belize through culture and heritage.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/19377389
info_outline
Three Perfect Days in Belize by Ali Wunderman
04/07/2021
Three Perfect Days in Belize by Ali Wunderman
Ali Wunderman is back in the studio of the Belize Travelcast to update us on what she's been up to since her last visit back in January 2020. Ali is back in Belize to rekindle her love for Belize's nature and people, but she was also here to work on a new cover article for Hemispheres Magazine's April issue, titled "Three Perfect Days in Belize". Check it out on your next flight on United Airlines.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/18642950
info_outline
Is Belize Safe? Travel to Belize in 2021 and Beyond
01/01/2021
Is Belize Safe? Travel to Belize in 2021 and Beyond
Belize is safe to visit and is gearing up to become a first-class tourism destination! Honorable Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations in Belize, joins us for a virtual recording session to discuss safety and the future of travel and tourism in Belize. Hon. Mahler promotes Belize as a safe tropical destination to visit during the COVID-19 pandemic as numerous health and safety procedures are put in place to mitigate and prevent the spread of the virus.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/17388695
info_outline
Belize Gold Standard Hotels, Tours, and Transportation Options
11/09/2020
Belize Gold Standard Hotels, Tours, and Transportation Options
Belize is open for travel! The Belize International Airport reopened for inbound tourism on October 1st, 2020. In this episode, we continue our conversation with Misty Michael from the Belize Tourism Board to discuss the Belize Gold Standard program for Health and Safety. A full list of Belize Gold Standard hotels, tours, and transportation options is available on Belizing.com. This episode is sponsored by the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, Belize Sailing Vacations, and Orchid Bay Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/16732160
info_outline
Belize Travel Restrictions & Airport Protocols
10/30/2020
Belize Travel Restrictions & Airport Protocols
Belize is open for travel! Yes, we’re back and we can’t wait to welcome you back to our shores. Misty Michael from the Belize Tourism Board joins us to talk about Belize travel restrictions and airport protocols. You can explore Belize from Reef to Jungle, responsibly, and safely at your pleasure. This episode is sponsored by the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, Belize Sailing Vacations, and Orchid Bay Resort.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/16613012
info_outline
Caracol: The Largest Ancient Maya City in Belize
08/29/2020
Caracol: The Largest Ancient Maya City in Belize
Take a virtual tour of Caracol, the largest ancient Maya city in Belize. Learn about the history of this magnificent ancient city deep in the jungles of Belize. Our expert guide, Jorge De Leon, from Lion Adventure Tours, takes us on this virtual trip and gives us some travel tips for your next in-person visit to Caracol where you will get to climb the tallest building in Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/15799442
info_outline
Belize Punta Rock Music with Supa G
08/15/2020
Belize Punta Rock Music with Supa G
In this episode, we discuss the vibrancy and uniqueness of Belize’s music and musical artists. We are joined by Supa G, one of the most famous punta rock artists in Belize. We discuss the evolution of punta music from paranda to punta rock and Supa G's unique style that reaches across genres and has made him popular throughout the world. If you’re ready to dive into the rhythmic world of punta rock with Supa G, then this episode is for you. Find more information at .
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/15621305
info_outline
The People of Belize (part 2)
07/26/2020
The People of Belize (part 2)
This is the second part of our conversation on Belizean Culture and the people of Belize with Belizean Anthropologist Joe Awe from NINE Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe Awe is one of the most renowned experts on indigenous cultures in the country. In this episode, Joe continues the discussion on Belizean Cultures, how food and culture bring us together, and the Creolization of Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/15357365
info_outline
The Origins of Belizean Culture (Part 1)
07/23/2020
The Origins of Belizean Culture (Part 1)
The people of Belize are often referred to as a melting pot of cultures. For such a small country, Belize’s population is very diverse. In this episode, we discuss the origins of Belize’s cultural groups. Our guest is Joe Awe, Anthropologist and Chief Cultural Evangelist from NINE Belize Eco-Cultural Tours. Joe is one of the foremost experts on Belize's cultures. In this two-part discussion, Joe gives us a very thought-provoking lesson on the history of Belize's melting pot.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/15333887
info_outline
What to Expect when Belize Reopens for Travel
07/04/2020
What to Expect when Belize Reopens for Travel
[Updated] The Belize airport reopening has been delayed. In this episode, sponsored by Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas, we will provide a summary of the information you need before you visit and what to expect while you are in Belize. The hotels that are allowed to open must first certify for the new Belize Gold Standard certification program. Jim Scott was instrumental in developing these new standards and he sits down with us to discuss why these new standards are important.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/15082298
info_outline
Horseback Riding to the Xunantunich Maya Temples
06/23/2020
Horseback Riding to the Xunantunich Maya Temples
A virtual audio experience with Rodolfo & Carla Juan, the dynamic duo from St. Leonards Tours in western Belize. Join us on a virtual audio experience of a Horseback Riding tour to Xunantunich, home of the second tallest man-made structure in Belize. Take a journey into the history of western Belize in the days of the Ancient Maya. A quiet riverside trail will take you to the village of San Jose Succotz where you will cross the river by ferry and up to the magnificent Maya site of Xunantunich.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14928269
info_outline
Belize's Wealth Untold: The Seven Wonders of Central America
06/09/2020
Belize's Wealth Untold: The Seven Wonders of Central America
Mr. Hector Silva, a local Belizean historian, tells us about the seven wonders of Central America that can only be found in Belize. Don Hector has served Belize in all elected capacities including as Mayor, Legislator, Minister of government, and Senator. In this episode, he gives us some insight into some local history of Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14751488
info_outline
The ATM Cave in Belize - A Journey to the Maya Underworld
05/24/2020
The ATM Cave in Belize - A Journey to the Maya Underworld
In this episode, ATM specialist Mr. Elias Cambranes from Katun Ahau Tours takes us on an amazing mind-blowing virtual tour of the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave in Western Belize. The ATM Cave is one of the experiences in Belize that you must have on your bucket list. Take a journey into Xibalba, the Maya underworld, and hear why this was proclaimed as the most sacred cave in the world. The ATM cave is one of Belize's most stunning attractions and a visit will most certainly change your life. Until you , join us on this virtual tour with Elias and mark your calendars for your next trip to Belize.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14545319
info_outline
Belize Prepares: An Update from The Belize Tourism Board
05/13/2020
Belize Prepares: An Update from The Belize Tourism Board
The public relations officer of the Belize Tourism Board, Mrs. Linette Canto, joins us in this episode to discuss some of the preparations being made in Belize, including the development of new policies and procedures and capacity building of local tourism stakeholders. The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) is the governing body of Belize’s tourism industry, with a primary mandate of marketing the destination both locally and internationally. In our phone conversation, Linette recaps Belize’s recently booming tourism industry as we recorded more than half a million overnight arrivals in 2019. She also gives us a brief overview of some of the marketing outreach they have been doing to keep the destination top of mind for when travel resumes. Belize has been declared Covid-19-free since May 11 after having recorded no new cases for 28 days.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14402774
info_outline
Belize Awaits: Preparing for Post-COVID Tourism
05/05/2020
Belize Awaits: Preparing for Post-COVID Tourism
Ted Tejada joins us remotely via telephone to discuss how Belize has fared during the coronavirus pandemic and the efforts to prepare for visitors after our borders are reopened. Ted is the president of the and general manager of the Belize Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. In this episode, he gives us some insight into how the tourism industry in Belize was caught off guard, just as the rest of the world, but how the country then took decisive action to mitigate the spread. Belize now ranks 5th globally as one of the most prepared countries in the world to lift its COVID-19 lockdown measures. As of this recording, Belize had recorded 18 cases, with only 2 active cases remaining. While the borders, including the airport, are still closed, the country continues to make post-COVID preparations. Ted gives us some insight into some of the policies and procedures being developed by different organizations in Belize such as the Belize Hotel Association, National Institute of Culture and History, Belize Airport Authority, and the Belize Tourism Board. A collective effort is being made throughout the country to put protocols and policies in place, with a phased reopening being planned. Ted reaffirms that Belize is a destination worth waiting for, and he assures us that everything possible is being done to ensure the safety of guests when tourism gets back on track.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14289083
info_outline
Why Belize Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List
04/23/2020
Why Belize Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List
In this episode, Kaitlin Narciso, a travel journalist from Canada speaks to us about her experience visiting Belize for the first time. Kaitlin writes for HOLR Magazine, and is an experienced multimedia journalist, content creator, and digital marketing strategist. Kaitlin discusses how she found out about Belize and why she had to put it on her travel bucket list. Hear about her experience in San Ignacio with her travel partner Jess Campbell, and what she thinks about the people of Belize and why they plan to come back. Kaitlin also tells us about her experience eating the local cuisine, and enjoying zip lining and cave tubing. She also gives us some travel tips and recommendations on what to pack when you visit Belize. Kaitlin published two articles about Belize in HOLR magazine after this trip, and she promised to return to do the ATM cave tour.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/14111009
info_outline
Belize Destination Weddings with Chef Sean Kuylen
04/05/2020
Belize Destination Weddings with Chef Sean Kuylen
Chef Sean Kuylen gives us his insight into what makes Belize a unique and excellent location for your destination wedding. Sean is well known as Belize’s best chef, and he works with wedding planners throughout Belize to bring you an all-inclusive package with the best of Belize’s cuisine inspired by the different cultures in Belize. Sean is passionate about promoting Belizean culture and his menu features authentic cultural food and experiences that are perfectly curated and catered to your unique wedding plans. If you’re dreaming of a fairytale wedding to tie the knot barefoot on a sandy beach, at a sacred Maya temple, on a secluded island, under the rainforest canopy, or any combination of these, then Belize is the perfect choice. Sean and his crew will show up with their specially built food trailer and his local cultural partners to ensure that your fairytale wedding is everything you dreamed it would be, and more.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/13858310
info_outline
The Importance of Wellness in Stressful Times: Relax, Restore, and Reconnect in Belize
03/26/2020
The Importance of Wellness in Stressful Times: Relax, Restore, and Reconnect in Belize
Michelle Williams from Om Shanti Belize takes us through her personal journey to achieving mental and physical wellness, and some of the wonderful work she’s doing in Belize to advocate for wellness. As we endure this world crisis, we need to recognize the importance of our mental and physical wellness to ensure that we emerge from this as our best selves. Learn about some of the wellness initiatives in Belize and why you should visit when you need to de-stress, restore, and reconnect.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/13707980
info_outline
The Longest Canoe Race in Central America
03/05/2020
The Longest Canoe Race in Central America
In this episode, we welcome Luis Garcia, one of the original founders of the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, the longest canoe race of its kind in Central America. The La Ruta Maya race was conceived along with the late great Richard Harrison as an idea to promote the launch of Vida Purified Water but more importantly, to highlight the importance of the rivers in Belize and to promote community involvement in keeping the rivers clean and healthy.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/13420133
info_outline
The Crocodile Research Coalition in Belize
03/03/2020
The Crocodile Research Coalition in Belize
Learn how the great great granddaughter of Pancho Villa's medicine woman is now saving the crocodiles in Belize. Dr. Marisa Tellez is the founder and Executive Director of the Crocodile Research Center in Belize. In this episode, Dr. Tellez and her colleague Darcy Ulez talks about the work at the CRC and their plans to build a wildlife clinic and crocodile conservation center in Belize to protect the crocodiles and educate the local communities about the importance of crocodiles to the environment.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/13390226
info_outline
No Barcode: A Culinary Journey through Belize with Chef Sean Kuylen
02/18/2020
No Barcode: A Culinary Journey through Belize with Chef Sean Kuylen
Take a journey through Belize with Chef Sean Kuylen and learn about the different cultural dishes that make up Belizean Cuisine. Chef Kuylen is Belize's equivalent of Anthony Bourdain and he is on a mission to define and showcase authentic Belizean Cuisine. Chef Kuylen is a household name throughout the country and represents Belize by showcasing inspired Belizean Cuisine locally and throughout the world.
/episode/index/show/belizing/id/13196882